In this episode of the I Love Annuities Podcast, Jeremiah Konger and Zachary Van Es — The Annuity Dudes — break down everything you need to know about how index crediting strategies work in Fixed Index Annuities (FIAs).Learn the difference between annual point-to-point, monthly averaging, volatility-controlled indexes, and more. We’ll simplify key terms like cap rate, participation rate, spread, and give you real-world insight into how these strategies can shape your annuity performance.📊 Whether you’re evaluating a fixed index annuity or already own one, this is the guide you need to make smarter, more confident decisions.✅ Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode!⏱️ Timestamps0:00 – Intro: Why Index Crediting Matters2:15 – What is an Index Crediting Strategy?5:30 – Common Crediting Methods Explained11:45 – Understanding Key Terms: Cap, Participation, Spread17:05 – The Different Types of Indexes (Traditional vs. Vol-Controlled)21:20 – How to Evaluate and Compare Crediting Strategies26:10 – Strategy Terms, Fees, and Multi-Year Lock-ins29:00 – Final Thoughts & What to Watch ForSchedule Free Annuity Discovery - https://annuityassociation.chilipiper.com/concierge-router/link/annuity-association-1st-appointment-routing?utm_source=podcastRequest Free Annuity Report - https://annuityassociation.com/podcast-annuity-report

Think annuities are bad? Think again. In this episode, we bust the biggest annuity myths you’ve seen online — especially the ones pushed by Fisher Investments and other anti-annuity voices. If you’ve ever been told annuities are too expensive, too complex, or a scam… this episode is for YOU.We cut through the noise and give you the real story, including when annuities actually make sense in your retirement plan.🔎 Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Why annuities are under attack02:00 – Myth #1: “Annuities have high fees”06:00 – Myth #2: “They’re too complex”10:00 – Myth #3: “You lose access to your money”14:00 – Myth #4: “Annuities are only for the old or rich”18:00 – Myth #5: “You’ll get better returns in the market”22:00 – Who’s behind the anti-annuity movement? (Fisher Investments)26:00 – When annuities actually make sense29:00 – Wrap-up + Multi-Point Annuity Inspection✅ LIKE this episode if it opened your eyes✅ SUBSCRIBE to never miss an episode✅ Visit http://annuityassociation.com to compare annuities with zero pressureSchedule Free Annuity Discovery Meeting: https://annuityassociation.chilipiper.com/concierge-router/link/annuity-association-1st-appointment-routing?utm_source=podcastRequest Free Annuity Report: https://annuityassociation.com/podcast-annuity-report

Are you still holding onto an annuity purchased 3–5 years ago or more? You might be missing out on significantly better rates and features available today! In this informative and entertaining episode, hosts Jeremiah Konger and Zachary Van Es—The Annuity Dudes—dive deep into the reasons why upgrading your older annuity might be the smartest financial move you make this year.With the current high-interest-rate environment, annuity rates for guaranteed income and safe growth have soared. Older income annuities and growth-focused indexed annuities, purchased during lower-rate periods, can often be replaced or upgraded, dramatically boosting your retirement benefits.We'll also tackle the topic of surrender penalties head-on. Worried about fees when replacing an older annuity? Discover how premium bonus offers available today can offset these penalties, making your transition smooth and financially advantageous.Don’t settle for outdated financial products—learn how to upgrade your annuity effectively and unlock stronger financial security and retirement peace of mind!🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more retirement tips and annuity insights!📌 Timestamps:0:00 – Introduction: Why Upgrade Your Annuity?2:45 – Current Interest Rate Environment: Better Rates, Better Returns7:20 – Upgrading Older Income Annuities for Increased Guaranteed Income12:10 – Indexed Annuities: Higher Cap and Participation Rates Today17:25 – Understanding Surrender Penalties: Costs vs. Benefits22:15 – Leveraging Premium Bonus Offers to Offset Penalties27:50 – Real-Life Examples: Annuity Upgrades in Action34:10 – Key Considerations Before Upgrading Your Annuity39:00 – Listener Q&A: Common Annuity Upgrade Questions Answered43:10 – Final Thoughts and Action Steps🎙 Hosts:Jeremiah Konger & Zachary Van Es – "The Annuity Dudes"🔗 Related Links & Resources:Visit our website: https://annuityassociation.comSchedule Annuity Discovery Meeting: https://annuityassociation.chilipiper.com/concierge-router/link/annuity-association-1st-appointment-routing?utm_source=podcastRequest Free Annuity Report: https://annuityassociation.com/podcast-annuity-report

In today’s episode, The Annuity Dudes tackle one of the biggest retirement decisions you'll ever make: Should you keep your pension — or take the lump sum and build your own income stream with a fixed indexed annuity?

We break down the pros and cons of both options and give you a clear roadmap to making the choice that’s right for you. Whether you’ve already received a buyout offer or just want to plan ahead, this episode is packed with insights you can’t afford to miss.

00:00 – Intro: Why pensions are disappearing01:30 – What happened to traditional pensions?06:00 – Lump sum buyouts: What are they and why do companies offer them?10:00 – Pension vs. annuity: Head-to-head comparison15:00 – Income guarantees, spousal continuation, and death benefits20:00 – Inflation protection and payout customization25:00 – Real-world math: Monthly income comparison33:00 – How to decide which route is right for you40:00 – Wrap-up + The Multi-Point Annuity Inspection offer43:00 – Final thoughts and contact info

• Pensions are not always the best option

• Fixed indexed annuities with income riders can provide more flexibility, legacy options, and competitive payouts

• The choice should be guided by your goals, risk tolerance, and spousal needs

Request Free Annuity Report - https://annuityassociation.com/podcast-annuity-report

Unlock the hidden key to retirement success — your own behavior. In this eye-opening episode of The I Love Annuities Podcast, The Annuity Dudes — Jeremiah Konger and Zachary Van Es — explore how behavioral psychology can make or break your retirement plan.✅ Discover the 5 emotions that derail retirement✅ Learn how guaranteed income (like annuities) protects your peace of mind✅ Get proven strategies to manage fear, regret, and overconfidencePerfect for retirees and pre-retirees aged 55–75 who want financial security and emotional clarity.👉 Subscribe for more retirement tips and real-world advice!📞 Book Your Free Annuity Discovery Meeting Here: https://annuityassociation.chilipiper.com/concierge-router/link/annuity-association-1st-appointment-routing?utm_source=youtubeRequest your Free Annuity Report Here: https://annuityassociation.com/podcast-annuity-report⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Meet The Annuity Dudes02:15 – Why Behavior is greater than Performance in Retirement06:50 – DALBAR Study: Why Investors Underperform10:40 – Top 5 Emotions That Derail Retirement17:25 – Behavioral Biases: Anchoring, Framing & More22:40 – Psychology of Guaranteed Income30:15 – Real Story: Arizona Couple Regains Confidence36:10 – Tools to Manage Behavior: Buckets, Advisors, Annuities41:45 – Final Thoughts: Emotional Control = Financial Success44:30 – How We Help: Building a Behavior-Proof Retirement Plan47:10 – Subscribe, Review & Connect with Us!

The Annuity Dudes reveal the top annuity providers of 2025 based on guaranteed income, carrier strength, and LTC benefits using their Multi-Point Annuity Inspection™ process. Learn how to buy annuities smarter — not just what's pitched to you.

Book Annuity Discovery Meeting: https://calendly.com/annuityassociation/podcast-annuity-discoveryIn this essential episode of the I Love Annuities Podcast, Jeremiah Konger and Zachary Van Es, your trusted Annuity Dudes, dive deep into the stark differences between financial planning during your working years and retirement planning. Discover how longevity, market volatility, and healthcare expenses pose significant risks in retirement and why guaranteed income may be your key to a happier, healthier, and more financially secure life.🔗 Important Tools Mentioned:Longevity Illustrator: https://www.longevityillustrator.org📚 Referenced Research:Michael Finke, "License to Spend": https://www.protectedincome.org/license-to-spend/Society of Actuaries longevity studies⏰ Episode Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Retirement vs. Financial Planning03:25 - Shocking Truth #1: Your Retirement Could Last Longer Than You Think06:50 - Shocking Truth #2: Healthcare Costs Are Surprisingly High10:15 - Shocking Truth #3: Sequence of Returns Risk Explained14:00 - Shocking Truth #4: Most Advisors Aren't Retirement Specialists17:45 - Shocking Truth #5: Guaranteed Income Is Your Greatest Asset22:30 - Longevity Risk: Why Living Longer Multiplies Your Retirement Risks28:15 - Social Security: Designed to Supplement, Not Replace Income32:40 - Pensions Are Gone: Now What?37:20 - Spousal Income Planning: Critical for Financial Security43:00 - Research Findings: Guaranteed Income Makes You Happier49:20 - "License to Spend": Why Income Guarantees Empower You to Spend Confidently55:10 - Actionable Steps & How to Secure Your Retirement Future🔔 Subscribe & Share:Stay informed and empowered. Subscribe to the I Love Annuities Podcast and share this episode with loved ones to help them secure their retirement with confidence.📞 Need Expert Retirement Advice?Book your free annuity discovery session: [Your Scheduling Link Here]#RetirementPlanning #Annuities #GuaranteedIncome #FinancialSecurity #LongevityRisk #LicenseToSpend #RetirementIncomePlanning #FinancialPlanning #I LoveAnnuitiesPodcast #AnnuityDudes

In this episode, we challenge conventional wisdom by putting the 4% withdrawal rule to the test against real historical data and a modern retirement income strategy powered by ChatGPT.We unpack:What the 4% rule is and why it’s outdatedChatGPT’s take on the most optimal retirement income strategyReal-life portfolio simulations from 1998–2022, 1973–1997, and 1950–1974The psychology of retirement income planningWhy annuities + growth portfolios may be your retirement superpowerAnd why many advisors might not be acting in your best interest if they’re ignoring annuities📌 Timestamps for Key Segments:00:00 – Welcome back!01:25 – What is ChatGPT and why did we ask it about retirement?03:45 – Challenging the 4% withdrawal rule05:12 – Who is William Bengen aka “Billy the Kid”?07:10 – The original 4% rule explained08:55 – Historical scenario: 1998–2022 with $40k annual withdrawals12:40 – Risks of the traditional approach: inflation, longevity, sequence-of-returns14:20 – The modern alternative: income annuity + equity portfolio16:45 – Guaranteed income math (7.4% payout = $540k annuity investment)18:30 – Miyagi analogy: Risk-off for income, risk-on for growth20:10 – Annuity + 100% stocks result: $1.26M vs. $1.08M22:40 – 1973–1997 simulation with Black Monday24:30 – 1950–1974 bull market test26:00 – Consistency across all timeframes and outcomes28:15 – Psychology of guaranteed income and spending confidence31:00 – Wall Street vs. real retirement income needs33:10 – Why income is the real reason you save in a 401(k)35:50 – ChatGPT's optimal retirement strategy explained37:40 – 40–60% annuity, 40–60% equities = flexibility + confidence41:10 – Why most investment advisors are missing the mark45:25 – Personal stories: retirees with pensions are happiest48:50 – How the 401(k) replaced pensions (and what we lost)52:00 – The hierarchy of retirement planning: Income - Growth - Legacy55:30 – Living longer and happier with guaranteed income59:00 – Tim the fireman: real-world example of a happy retiree01:02:00 – You deserve a plan that gives clarity, peace, and control01:05:00 – Outro: Like, share, subscribe… and let's get these shirts printed!

🚀 📖 Get Your FREE Customized Annuity Rates Report! → https://annuityassociation.com/podcast-annuity-reportSchedule Annuity Discovery Meeting Here: https://calendly.com/annuityassociation/podcast-annuity-discoveryIn episode #7 of the I Love Annuities Podcast, The Annuity Dudes—Jeremiah Konger and Zachary Van Es—reveal "The Ultimate Checklist for Choosing Your Annuity." Whether you're approaching retirement or already retired, this essential step-by-step guide helps you confidently select an annuity tailored specifically for your income or growth objectives.This episode covers:✅ How to select the right, independent annuity advisor✅ Defining your annuity objective: Income vs. Growth✅ Detailed multi-point inspection checklists✅ Understanding annuity application and transfer processes✅ Importance of annual annuity performance reviewsMake sure your annuity aligns with your retirement goals, lifestyle, and legacy—without sales pitches or surprises.Timestamps:0:00 – Intro1:15 – Step 1: Choosing the Right Advisor4:45 – Step 2: Define Your Objective - Income or Growth?6:30 – Step 3A: Income Goal – Multi-Point Inspection Checklist10:45 – Step 3B: Growth Goal – Multi-Point Inspection Checklist15:15 – Step 4: Application & Transfer Process Explained17:30 – Step 5: Commit to Annual Performance Reviews20:10 – Final Recap & Thoughts22:00 – Outro📚 Additional Resources:Annuity Rate WatchCannexAnnuities GeniusThe Index Standard🔑 Keywords: annuities, retirement planning, annuity checklist, income annuity, growth annuity, retirement income, financial advisor, annuity advisor, retirement strategy#Annuities #RetirementPlanning #FinancialFreedom #IncomeAnnuities #GrowthAnnuities #TheAnnuityDudes #FinancialAdvisor #RetirementGoals

🚀 📖 Get Your FREE Customized Annuity Rates Report! → https://annuityassociation.com/podcast-annuity-reportSchedule Annuity Discovery Meeting Here: https://calendly.com/annuityassociation/podcast-annuity-discovery🔑 Key Topics Covered✅ Biggest annuity buying mistakes✅ Fixed index annuities vs. variable annuities✅ How to avoid hidden annuity fees✅ Retirement income planning strategies✅ Best annuities for retirees in 2025✅ Safe money strategies for guaranteed income💡 Did you know that 70% of annuity buyers regret their purchase within the first five years? That’s right—most people make HUGE mistakes when buying annuities, and today, we’re breaking down exactly why this happens and how YOU can avoid it!In this episode, Jeremiah Konger & Zachary Van Es uncover the #1 mistake annuity buyers make and how to ensure you’re choosing the right annuity for your financial future.🔔 Subscribe for Weekly Annuity Insights! → [Insert Your YouTube Channel Link]🕒 Timestamps & Key Takeaways:00:00 - Did You Know? 70% of Annuity Buyers Regret Their Purchase02:15 - Why Most People Buy the WRONG Annuity05:30 - The BIG Problem: Annuities Are Sold, Not Bought08:45 - The #1 Mistake Annuity Buyers Make12:20 - High Bonuses, Sales Hype & Misleading Marketing17:15 - How Captive Agents Influence Your Decision21:30 - The REAL Truth About Annuity Fees & Fine Print25:00 - How to Compare Annuities the Right Way28:30 - Exclusive Tool: Annuity Performance Analyzer32:45 - Final Thoughts & How to Avoid These Mistakes🔥 More Must-Watch Annuity Videos:🔹How Annuities Can Save You From Market Crashes - https://youtu.be/AqNaE3jGC10🔹What's The SECRET To Fixed Index Annuities With Income Riders? - https://youtu.be/20xD7GD4f28🎧 Listen on the Go! Find Us on Apple & Spotify Podcasts:Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-love-annuities/id1540303779Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/34zNKW8vNiakP5Y4ur70aZ?si=011ctqgxR4Cd14TumhJ8Xw💬 Have questions? Drop a comment below & we’ll answer them!🔹 Follow us for more annuity insights!📌 Website: www.annuityassociation.com#Annuities #RetirementPlanning #AnnuityMistakes #AnnuityDudes #RetirementIncome #SafeMoney